Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability has three key dimensions: economic viability, social responsibility, and environmental well-being.

At the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit on September 25, 2015, world leaders adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes a set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change by 2030.

The Greek Case for Sustainability

Research suggests that college-aged Generation Zs have the energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and global orientation necessary to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change by 2030, as envisioned in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. However, Greek collegians often lack the capacity to live their values and lead the transition to a sustainable and equitable tomorrow. A collegiate event or action can do much to move toward this goal, but it can also hinder progress.

For example, recently an amazing organization that sought to end poverty and ensure gender equality in the educational arena held a fundraiser. Unbeknownst to the well-meaning students, their promotional swag was manufactured in developing countries by young women who weren’t paid a living wage for their work.Leadership stems from individuals and organizations that are aware of their impact on the world. The fraternity/sorority community is well-positioned to benefit from such leadership, which is vital to the realization of Greek values.